Listen While You Lose...How Weight Loss Podcasts Help You Lose 6 Times More Weight

Copyright (c) 2010 Raymond Hinish

A recent study, published in the American Journal of Preventative Nutrition, found that listening to weight loss podcasts could result in significant weight loss. Researchers tested a special formula for producing their weight loss podcast and compared it to a standard weight loss podcast which acted as the control group. After 12 weeks the group that received the special, formula-based, weight loss podcast lost 6 pounds compared to less than 1 pound in the control group.

So, what was the formula that resulted in such an effective weight loss podcast? According to the researchers of the study, the podcast was engaging, based on scientific evidence, and focused on teaching people how to live a lifestyle of health. The enhanced podcast provided tips on weight loss, diet, exercise, and motivation. Each podcast ended by suggesting a unique goal for the week.

There are many great ways to stay motivated when you are looking to lose fat. Personal trainers, books, support groups and now we can add podcasts to the list! The podcast gives you an on-demand motivational experience and, best of all, it's free!

How do you choose a good weight loss podcast?

Aside from the guidelines set by the research study above, you should also look at the following factors:

1. What qualifies the host or hosts to provide advice? The fact that podcasts are free and easy to set up, makes it very easy for any Joe Schmoe to publish. Make sure that they have real world experience and good solid scientific background.

2. Do You feel a sense of connection with the hosts? Just because it is a recorded podcast, doesn't mean that you aren't having a relationship with the hosts. Look to podcast hosts like a hybrid between a therapists and friend. You need to trust them and be willing to open up to them. As you are listening, a good podcast will challenge your beliefs and get you thinking. The podcast loses its power to promote change if you do not trust them.

3. Try them out. If you hate them, just delete them. Remember, sometimes you have to go left just to realize that you should have gone right. Accept a trial and error mentality, after all, it's FREE!

4. What are the hosts selling? It's a fair question...I don't have a problem with hosts providing products and services, but first they should provide value. When it comes to losing weight, diet is 80% of the story while exercise is 15%. The remaining 5% falls into the classification of "other"; if the hosts spend more than 5-8% of the time talking about their products or services...move on.


Ray Hinish, Pharm.D., C.P.T. is a natural pharmacist and certified personal trainer who specializes in weight loss. He co-hosts the Cut the Fat Podcast and Your Prescription for Health radio show. He currently contributes to http://cutthefatpodcast.com and  http://www.professionalvitaminsource.com .